Question for knappers

[ranger 3]

I have a Knapp kit and just got some flint rocks, where do I start? I have a DVD but it does not tell how to start with a good size rock. Need help

Howard

[Hardawaypoints]

I would suggest checking out the knapping forum on PaleoPlanet.  It has a beginners section that is pretty good. There are also many free how-to video demonstrations on u-tube explaining the process.
 
It is also important to remember that nobody was born knowing how to do this stuff and everybody developed as they went. Don't get discouraged if you don't turn out masterpieces right off the bat.  It is a good idea to keep some of your early points as a guage to mark your progression.  I learned the hard way...by myself.  I never saw another person knap until I was 5 years into it. My learning curve could have been shortened drastically if I had only known another knapper. Once you get the hang of it, it is like riding a bike and you won't look at another piece of knappable rock the same.

Something else you can do is find another knapper in your area or go to a Knap-In.  There is no substitute for having someone show the right way from the start.  You won't have any bad habits to un-learn and you will destroy far less good rock that way. You can also stop and ask questions along the way.  Even though a video can demonstrate how  the process is done, seeing it in person is the best.

I am not an expert by any means, but I am happy to help if I can.

[Hardawaypoints]

You can also get "spalls" (large chips) already knocked off the host rock & ready to be worked into an arrowhead from many vendor's sites.  That may be a much easier way to go rather than trying to make a point from a rock at this stage.

[outbackbob48]

Ranger3, Like Hardawaypoints said, If you can find a Knapin this will really cut the learning curve. Maybe save yourlarge pcs of stone an start on easy stuff like beer bottle bottoms or tv screens or plate glass until you get the hang of using tools an such. Oh, this is also a hobby of tonnage, so be prepared to bust up lots of rock, very challenging an rewarding. I,ve been knapping for about 2.5 yrs and surly no expert but if I can help give me a holler. Bob

[Hardawaypoints]

I hope this works.  This is a point I made from some Indiand Hornstone.  It is sitting on a nice piece of Ohio Flint Ridge. The Hornstone point has not been hafted to an arrow yet (I'm still learning how to build them). I look forward to the day it gets a chance to hunt.

Jim

[Hardawaypoints]

Still got some things to learn about posting pictures here I see...

Jim

[Hardawaypoints]

Try this.

[Hardawaypoints]

Oh well, It is a pretty stone point. I promise.
 
I'm much better at chipping rock than I am figuring out these aggravating computers anyway.
Here's wishing you great success in your knapping journey. May your points be sharp, and your shots be dead on!

Jim

[bacon]

This came at just the right time. Two days ago I decided to give it a try. I had a piece of obsidan laying around. Well I have cut up hands and lots of chips on the floor but no arrow points. But have had a blast passing time durring all the rain. I will get one somehow someway someday.

[ranger 3]

Jim, you have to put your pictures in photo bucket to post them. it's free. Thanks for all the encouragement.

Howard

[adeeden]

Howard, I do a little knapping. I see your from IL if your not to far away shoot me a PM and maybe I can give you some help. I'm not an expert but have been playing with it for 10 or so years!

[Hardawaypoints]

Hey Howard,
I have this pictures in photobucket.  For some reason it did not come up.  I will try again.later

Jim

[ranger 3]

Hi Jim

Just copy the IMG code (it is the bottom one) and paste in here.

Howard

[Hardawaypoints]

Try again.